We just completed a 3 1/2 month, 18,000 mile trip with a 2004 GX470 towing a 5000 lb +,- Airstream. I had self installed a Lexus hitch before we left using downloaded instructions from one of the dealers, this was very easy if you follow the instructions. We had a 1999 GMC Yukon previously for towing and was apprehensive when we left towing with the Lexus. After the first big and long hill and the Lexus outperforming the GMC by a long shot, I was put to ease. The only thing that passed me on the hill was a very large new 1 ton Dodge deisel pulling almost the exact trailer. This did not bother me as we were going 55 mph up the hill anyway. In 18,000 miles we had one slow leak in the tire from a nail, which we caught 5 minutes from the tire dealer as we were alerted by the tire moniter system. After that we probably put 5 lbs of air in total between the trailer and the Lexus. We did 2 oil changes,( the first was due early on in the trip anyways) and one air filter change in El Paso before we started into the hills to let her breathe a little better. This was the total maintanance on the whole trip. We averaged 13 mpg which I thought was not bad considering the speeds that we used. There was no problem keeping up with the 65 and 75 mph on the freeways. Side winds and cross winds were not a problem with either the trailer or Lexus. We have a wieght distributing hitch which left the SUV and trailer extremly level and had no problems with sway from the trailer( this is an airstream with tandem axles other trailers may differ). I did find however that the Lexus performed better with the ride set to sport as the original tires of the Lexus are only 2 ply sidewalls and are a little soft for towing giving the Lexus a side to side rock but it tracked very straight. This will be my only change when I replace the tires, I will go to a heavier sidewall. We did this on the Yukon as well and it made a world of difference. It drives a little stiffer when not towing but I prefer this type of ride anyway. This is just my personal preference. I use the ride adjustment all the time depending on the road conditions and find that it works well. Even my wife notices and that my friends is amazing......We are going to have the Lexus sit for a while to let the time catch up to the mileage but will not hesitate to replace the Lexus with another one down the road. If anyone had any questions regarding any other details that you might be interested in please contact me through the forum. I hope this helps anyone thinking of using the GX470 for towing. I won't hesitate again using mine.... B)
